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Chiang Mai Trekking Guide: Best Trails and Hiking Tours

What’s so great about trekking in Chiang Mai? The mountainous province in northern Thailand offers spectacular outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Whether you’re hiking on lush trails, visiting local Thailand hill tribe villages, rafting on scenic rivers or encountering majestic elephants, Chiang Mai offers unforgettable experiences for all.

Chiang Mai is known for its verdant jungles, massive waterfalls and winding rivers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for those looking to embark on a trekking adventure.

While it might be easy to assume that all trekking tours in Chiang Mai are similar, each one offers unique experiences and highlights. From cultural immersion when visiting hill tribe villages to the thrill of exploring untouched nature trails, there is something for everyone. Read on to discover five popular trekking tours from Bon Voyage Thailand and find the perfect adventure for you. Let us take you on the trip of a lifetime through the breathtaking landscapes of Chiang Mai.

Waterfalls Trail Trek – Doi Inthanon National Park

trekking through waterfal trail on doi inthanon
  • Location: Mae Sapok, Chiang Mai Province
  • Price: ฿2,500 / adult
  • Tour Type: Private
  • Guide: Basic English- speaking local Karen guide

Embark on a full-day adventure through the breathtaking scenery of Mae Sapok in Chiang Mai province. This private tour offers an unforgettable experience combining scenic jungle hikes, visits to vibrant rice terraces, refreshing baths in waterfalls and cultural encounters with the Karen hill tribes.

Highlights

  • Trek through the lush Thai jungle
  • Visit beautiful rice terraces (June to mid-November)
  • Swim in natural waterfalls
  • Explore the villages of the Karen hill tribes
  • Enjoy a traditional Thai lunch in a remote village

Detailed itinerary

Pick up from the hotel and drive through the countryside: Start your day with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Chiang Mai (between 8:00 am and 8:30 am). Enjoy a scenic drive to Mae Sapok, where your adventure begins.

Jungle trek: At 10:00 am, embark on a 2.5-hour trek through the beautiful jungle, crossing rivers and enjoying the lush surroundings.

First waterfall visit: You will reach the first waterfall at around 11:00 am. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

View of the rice terrace: At 12:00 you will arrive at a breathtaking rice terrace. Look out over the bright green fields and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Lunch in a Karen village: At 12:30 pm, enjoy a delicious Thai lunch in a remote Karen village. Experience the local culture and cuisine.

Further trekking: At 13:00, continue your trekking through the jungle and along the river for another 3-4 hours, immersing yourself in nature.

Second waterfall visit: At 3:30 pm, relax and swim at another beautiful waterfall. Refresh yourself in the natural plunge pool.

Second visit to Karen village: At 4:30 pm, you will visit another Karen hill tribe village. Learn more about the local agricultural techniques and observe the traditional weaving work.

Return to Chiang Mai: At 6:30pm, end your adventure and return to your accommodation in Chiang Mai, where you can look back on an unforgettable day.

Fitness level: Moderate. Suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness.

Are you ready to explore the waterfalls and jungles of Chiang Mai?
Book your private trekking tour today and experience the adventure of a lifetime.

Doi Inthanon Trek & Elephant Sanctuary Experience

Trekking Doi Inthanon and Elephant Sanctuary
  • Location: Chiang Mai Province
  • Price: ฿1,900 / adult
  • Tour Type: Group
  • Guide: English speaking local tour guide

Discover the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Doi Inthanon National Park on this unique tour. You’ll start with a visit to the elephant jungle sanctuary, then climb Thailand’s highest mountain and end your adventure with a hike to a hidden waterfall. This tour offers a perfect mix of nature, wildlife and cultural experiences.

Highlights

  • Visit to the elephant jungle sanctuary
  • Trek to the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon
  • Explore the pagodas of the King and Queen
  • Hike to the Pha Dok Siew waterfall
  • Experience the local culture in a Karen village
  • Learn about coffee production on a local plantation

Detailed itinerary

Pick up from the hotel and drive through the countryside: Start your day with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Chiang Mai (between 7:00 am and 7:30 am). Enjoy a scenic drive to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary: Arrive at the sanctuary at 8:30 am and engage with the elephants. Participate in activities such as mud bathing and river bathing and learn more about the conservation efforts.

Lunch break: At 12:00 pm, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Doi Inthanon peak: At 13:30, you will reach the highest point in Thailand at 2,565 meters above sea level. Capture unforgettable moments and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

King and Queen’s Pagoda: At 2:30pm, explore these architectural masterpieces, marvel at the intricate designs and breathtaking views.

Nature Trail and Pha Dok Siew Waterfall: Embark on a two-hour hike through the jungle to the hidden Pha Dok Siew waterfall at 16:00. Experience the tranquility and beauty of the lush forest and terraced rice fields.

Karen village and coffee plantation: Visit a Karen village and immerse yourself in the local culture. Learn more about coffee production, roast the beans and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee from the region.

Return to Chiang Mai: At 19:00, return to your accommodation and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.

Fitness level: Moderate. Suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness.

Experience the wonders of Doi Inthanon and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail – Doi Inthanon National Park

kew mae pan nature trekking trail
  • Location: Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai Province
  • Tour Type: Private and group
  • Guide: English speaking

Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains of Doi Inthanon National Park on this full-day group trek. This tour, offered from November 1 to May 31, includes a hike on the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, a visit to the King and Queen Twin Pagodas, a stop at the Hmong Hill Tribe Market and a visit to the picturesque Wachirathan Waterfall.

Highlights

  • Visit Thailand’s highest place: you stand at 2,565 meters above sea level.
  • Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: enjoy a 2-hour hike through lush forests with panoramic views of the mountains.
  • King and Queen Twin Pagodas: Discover the intricate architecture and peaceful gardens.
  • Hmong Hill Tribe Market: Experience the local culture and shop for handmade goods and fresh produce.
  • Wachirathan Waterfall: Take photos of the rainbow mist and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Detailed itinerary

Pick up from the hotel and drive through the countryside: Start your day with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Chiang Mai (between 7:00 am and 7:45 am). Enjoy a scenic drive to Doi Inthanon National Park.

Highest point in Thailand: Visit Thailand’s highest point at 2,565 meters above sea level. Enjoy the breathtaking view and take unforgettable photos.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: Embark on a two-hour hike (approximately 3 kilometers) along the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail. Enjoy the lush forest and panoramic views of the mountains.

King and Queen Twin Pagodas: Explore the King and Queen Twin Pagodas, marvel at the intricate architecture and stroll through the peaceful gardens.

Hmong Hill Tribe Market: Visit the Hmong Hill Tribe Market to learn about the local culture and support the community by purchasing handmade goods and fresh produce.

Wachirathan Waterfall: Visit the breathtaking Wachirathan Waterfall. Take photos of the rainbow mist and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Return to Chiang Mai: At 6:30 pm, return to your accommodation in Chiang Mai and review the beautiful impressions and experiences of the day.

Fitness level: Moderate. Suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness.

Secure your spot today with a small deposit. Experience the natural beauty of Doi Inthanon and create lasting memories on this unforgettable trek.

Kew Mae Pan + Pha Dok Siew Trekking – Doi Inthanon National Park

pha dok siew mini trekking trail
  • Location: Chiang Mai Province
  • Duration: 4 hours trekking
  • Cost: ฿4,200 / adult
  • Guide: English-speaking local guide, private tour

Outdoor lovers will enjoy this full-day private trekking tour to Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon National Park. Experience a four to five-hour hike on the Kew Mae Pan and Pha Dok Siew nature trails. This private tour also takes you to the twin royal pagodas, the summit (Thailand’s highest peak), a waterfall with plunge pool and an organic hill tribe market and coffee plantation.

The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trails are available from November 1 to May 31.

Highlights

  • Doi Inthanon
  • Royal Twin Pagodas
  • Nature trails
  • Rice terraces
  • Waterfall
  • Hmong market
  • Organic coffee plantation

Detailed itinerary:

Hotel pickup and scenic drive: start your day with a 7:30am pickup from the hotel lobby in Chiang Mai. Enjoy a scenic drive along the winding roads to Doi Inthanon National Park.

Doi Inthanon summit: Visit the summit of Doi Inthanon, which at 2,565 meters is the highest mountain in Thailand. Take a short but beautiful walk along the Angkha Nature Trail through moss-covered trees to reach the summit.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: Begin a 2-hour (3 km) hike on the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail. Your local Hmong hill tribe guide will point out various exotic flowers and birds unique to this area as you make your way through cool forests and open hillsides.

Royal Twin Pagodas: Explore the flower gardens around the Royal Twin Pagodas, which were built in honor of the King and Queen’s birthdays. The pagodas are surrounded by flower gardens, ponds and small bridges and offer breathtaking views of the valley below.

Hmong hill tribe market: At the local market, you can taste and buy fruit, vegetables, tea and coffee grown as part of the royal projects. This initiative helps the farming communities of the mountain tribes to operate more sustainably.

Lunch break: Enjoy a Thai lunch at the market, giving you a taste of traditional cuisine and a chance to rest before the second hike.

Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail: Begin a 2 to 3-hour hike through evergreen forests on the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail. You will pass terraced rice fields and enjoy the sights and sounds of the local wildlife.

Visit Pha Dok Siew Waterfall: Reach the breathtaking Pha Dok Siew Waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the natural plunge pool. Relax and unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings.

Pa Ka Yor Hill Tribe Coffee Farm: Visit the Pa Ka Yor Hill Tribe Arabica Coffee Farm. Sip a cup of organic coffee and observe the traditional way of life of the village before returning to Chiang Mai.

Drive back to Chiang Mai: Reflect on your adventure on the drive back to Chiang Mai and arrive at your accommodation around 6:30 pm.

Book your adventure

Elephant Sanctuary & Trekking Tour

young man bonding with elephant
  • Location: Mae Wang, Chiang Mai Province
  • Price: 1 day tour: ฿2,500 / adult 2 day tour: ฿3,700 / adult
  • Tour Type: Group (1 day) / Small group (2 days)
  • Tour guide: English speaking local tour guide

Experience the magic of Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary combined with trekking and bamboo rafting. Choose between a one- or two-day adventure, both of which offer unique and unforgettable experiences with rescued elephants, trekking through the jungle and cultural immersion with local hill tribes.

Highlights

  • Learn about elephants and their sanctuary
  • Meet and feed elephants
  • Give the elephants a mud bath and swim with them
  • Trek through the jungle
  • Enjoy bamboo rafting on the Mae Wang River
  • Visit a waterfall
  • Overnight stay with a Karen Hill Tribe host family (2-day tour)
  • Get to know the herbal medicine of the Karen Hill Tribe (2-day tour)

Detailed itinerary 1 day tour:

Pick up from hotel: Meet at the lobby of your hotel between 8:30am and 9:00am.

Elephant Camp: Arrive at the elephant camp at 10:00 am and change into the uniform provided. Learn more about the elephants and the sanctuary. Feed the elephants by hand, give them a mud bath and take them for a walk.

Bathing and swimming: At 12:30 you bathe and swim with the elephants.

Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Thai lunch at 13:30.

Jungle walk: At 2:15pm, hike along a scenic trail to Karen village.

Bamboo rafting: At 15:00, you’ll go bamboo rafting on the Mae Wang River.

Return to the hotel: Change into dry clothes at 16:00 and return to your accommodation at 17:00.

2-day tour:

Day 1:

Pick up from your hotel: Meet in the lobby of your hotel between 8:30am and 9:00am. Stop at a local market to buy food and supplies.

Elephant Camp: Arrive at the elephant camp at 10:30am and change into the uniform provided. Learn more about the elephants and the sanctuary. Meet the elephants, feed them and learn how to make the Karen Hill Tribe’s herbal medicine for them.

Mud bath and bathing: At 14:00, treat the elephants to a mud bath, let them run around and swim with them.

Visit to the waterfall: At 3:30 pm, head to a nearby waterfall and relax.

Karen Hill Tribe Homestay: At 4:30pm, you’ll have dinner at the Karen Hill Tribe homestay and spend the night there.

Day 2:

Breakfast and elephant visit: Have breakfast at 8:30 am and visit the elephants.

Waterfall and trekking: At 10:30 am, you will go to a waterfall and trek for about 2 hours on a nature trail.

Lunch and bamboo rafting: Enjoy your lunch at 13:00 and go bamboo rafting on the Mae Wang River at 14:00.

Return to the hotel: Change into dry clothes at 15:15 and return to your accommodation at 16:30.

Please note: The time you need for each activity may vary depending on weather and traffic conditions.

Fitness level: Moderate. Suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness.

Experience the wonders of Mae Wang and create lasting memories on these unforgettable tours.

Pha Dok Siew Mini Trekking + Highest Peak of Thailand

pha dok siew mini trekking trail
  • Location: Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province
  • Price: ฿1,500 / adult
  • Tour Type: Small group
  • Guide: English speaking local tour guide

Embark on a full-day adventure in Doi Inthanon National Park and explore Thailand’s highest peak and the surrounding natural beauty. On this tour you will visit breathtaking waterfalls, the twin pagodas King and Queen and hike the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail. Experience the local culture with a visit to the Hmong Hill Tribe Market and a Karen Hill Tribe Village.

Highlights

  • Visit the highest mountain in Thailand (2,565 meters)
  • Explore the twin King and Queen Pagodas
  • Hike on the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail (2 hours)
  • Visit the Wachirathan Waterfall and the Pha Dok Siew Waterfall
  • Visit the Hmong hill tribe market
  • Experience the culture of the Karen Hill Tribe and enjoy organic coffee

Detailed itinerary

Hotel pick-up: We will meet you in the lobby of your hotel between 7:00 am and 7:45 am for a convenient pick-up from the old city center and the night bazaar.

Wachirathan Waterfall: Visit the beautiful Wachirathan Waterfall, also known as the Rainbow Waterfall.

Highest point in Thailand: Travel to the highest point in Thailand at 2,565 meters above sea level. Enjoy the panoramic view and the cool mountain air.

King and Queen Twin Pagodas: Explore these stunning pagodas surrounded by beautiful gardens and offering breathtaking views of the mountains.

Hmong Hill Tribe Market: Make a quick stop at the Hmong Hill Tribe Market to buy some snacks and fresh fruits.

Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail: Embark on a 2-hour hike through the forest that leads to Pha Dok Siew Waterfall. Depending on the season, you can take a refreshing dip.

Karen Hill Tribe Village: Visit a Karen Hill Tribe Village where you can enjoy a cup of organic coffee and learn more about the local traditions and culture.

Return to the hotel: Return to your accommodation between 18:00 and 19:00 and reflect on the day’s adventures and beautiful sights.

Fitness level: Moderate. Suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness.

Experience the natural beauty of Doi Inthanon and create lasting memories on this unforgettable trekking tour.

Chiang Dao Trekking

  • Location: Chiang Dao district, Chiang Mai Province
  • Tour Type: Group
  • Guide: English speaking local guide

Welcome to Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, an important destination for hikers exploring Thailand. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2021, the sanctuary is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a top choice for nature lovers. This tour offers three trekking routes with varying distances and experiences, including visits to hot springs, Chiang Dao Cave and cultural encounters with local hill tribes.

Highlights

  • Explore the Doi Chiang Dao Wildlife Research Station
  • Trek through the village of Ban Yang Pu Toh
  • Relax in natural hot springs
  • Discover the Chiang Dao Cave
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Hmong Hill Tribe market

Detailed itinerary

Route 1: Mini trekking, onsen relaxation and Chiang Dao cave adventure

Hotel pick-up: We meet at 7:00 am in the lobby of your hotel.

Trekking: Start at 9:00 am for a 1.5-hour hike around Doi Luang Chiang Dao Research Station and enjoy the scenic landscape of mountains, forests and streams.

Onsen hot spring: Relax and take a dip in the healing waters of the onsen hot spring at 11:00 am.

Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant at 12:30 pm.

Chiang Dao Cave: Visit Chiang Dao Cave at 14:00 and explore its stunning limestone formations and historical significance.

Return to the hotel: You will leave Chiang Dao Cave at 16:00 and reach your hotel in Chiang Mai at 17:30.

Route 2: Chiang Dao Cave and Hot Springs Trekking Tour

Hotel pick-up: We meet at 7:00 am in the lobby of your hotel.

Trekking: Start the 7 km trek along the Huai Mae Mat – San Kang Jong route with a local guide at 9:00 am, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.

Lunch: Take a well-deserved lunch break at 12:30 pm.

Hot spring bath: Enjoy a dip in the natural hot spring at 13:30.

Chiang Dao Cave: Explore Chiang Dao Cave at 15:00 and learn more about its history and natural formations.

Return to hotel: Leave Chiang Dao Cave at 17:00 and arrive at your hotel in Chiang Mai at 18:30.

Route 3: Discover the natural beauty of Chiang Dao

Hotel pick-up: Meet at the lobby of your hotel at 7:00 am.

Trekking: You will meet your experienced guide and start the 13 km hike through Pa Miang and San Khom Phra at 9:00 am.

Lunch: Take a lunch break at 12:00 pm amidst the beautiful surroundings.

Further trekking: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the forest and enjoy the breathtaking views until 17:00.

Bath in a hot spring: Take a refreshing dip in a natural hot spring at 5:30 pm.

Return to the hotel: Leave the hot spring and return to Chiang Mai at 19:00.

Fitness level: Moderate. Suitable for people with a reasonable fitness level.

Experience the wonders of Chiang Dao and create lasting memories on these unforgettable treks.

Provided on the tour

  • Driver and transportation
  • Local Thai meals
  • Hotel transfer (within 3 km of the Chiang Mai City Moat)
  • Accident insurance
  • Basic accommodations (overnight trips only)

Meals are provided on the tour, although the number of meals is dependent on whether the trek is one, two, or three days long. All meals will feature local Thai cuisine, but if visitors have any special dietary requirements or restrictions, such as eating vegetarian or halal meals, please let us know prior to your trip.

On multiple-day tours, groups will spend the night in a shared, dormitory-like sleeping area and will be provided with blankets and pillows. If you are in need of luggage storage during your trekking Chiang Mai trip, we offer safe storage at our operating partner office back in the city.

Activities

young man and woman bamboo rafting along local river

Chiang Mai’s hiking trails stretch for hundreds of kilometers throughout the mountainous jungle. Unlike other forests in Thailand that are generally populated with broad-leafed trees and ferns, you may be surprised to find evergreen, pine, and mixed deciduous tree varieties as well, as an interesting species of moss and lichen, once you begin your hike.

You can look forward to the excitement of exploring northern Thailand and the freedom of being in the exotic outdoors. Trekking is a unique activity in that you can truly immerse yourself in your surroundings and experience new sights, sounds, smells, and even textures. And of course, there’s the in-the-moment happiness you get out of completing a trail.

There are several major rivers that flow throughout Chiang Mai Province, so it’s no surprise that water activities are also on the list of things to do and include rafting, hiking to waterfalls, and even swimming in them.

Thailand’s rainy season produces notable rapids in some areas of the river, but during the dry season these currents slow down into peacefully gurgling currents. This is the time when you can lazily drift through the jungle on a traditional Thai bamboo raft.

Perhaps one of the most unique activities Chiang Mai offers is a peek into the lives of the local indigenous hill tribes of Northern Thailand. These people have retained their time-honored traditions and dress and behave in a way that is very different from modern Thai society. These hill tribe people are renowned for their beautiful handicrafts, too.

Feeding and interacting with elephants is an unforgettable experience and a memorable addition to your bucket list. Discover more info about the Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai and make your dream encounter with these gentle giants a reality.

Where can I hike in Chiang Mai?

Doi Inthanon Mountain

Doi Inthanon is the highest peak in Thailand. It’s located in Doi Inthanon National Park in the north of Thailand. There are many trekking opportunities in this park. Trekkers come here for the beautiful scenery, rich history, and Buddhist stupa.

Mae Wang National Park

Mae Wang (Mountain River) is located on the edge of Doi Inthanon National Park and is famous for its beautiful views and many waterfalls. There are several treks offered. The most famous is the Mae Wang Waterfall Trek, which takes about 2 hours. You can ride a bamboo raft along the river.

Mae Taeng District

Another popular trekking destination near Chiang Mai is where you can hike through rice paddies, go whitewater rafting on the Mae Taeng River, and watch elephants in nearby sanctuaries.

Chiang Dao National Park

For those seeking a mix of rich biodiversity and challenging terrain, Chiang Dao offers a rewarding hiking experience with trails leading through dense forests, quiet streams and up to the breathtaking summit of Doi Luang Chiang Dao.

Preparing for your Trekking Chiang Mai

A little bit of forward planning can make all the difference in making your Chiang Mai trek the experience of a lifetime, versus something you would rather forget. Use the information below to ensure you know what to pack and what to expect.

Weather

chiang mai weather

Thailand is a notoriously hot and humid country, but its mountains are deceivingly cool. In fact, Chiang Mai is home to Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon, which reaches a height of more than 2,500 meters above sea level and maintains a mid-day temperature between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius year-round.

Mountains in this region are pleasantly balmy throughout the year, although the coolest months are December and January. Rainstorms are a regular occurrence from July to October, but because showers only last about an hour or two each day, trekkers will be able to continue their tour, even if briefly stalled by the rain.

What to Pack

Thailand Packing List

Trekking in Chiang Mai doesn’t require much equipment, but there are several essentials to wear. For starters, a comfortable pair of walking or hiking shoes are a must, as well as breathable socks, a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.

Since some of the best Chiang Mai trekking tours include visits to waterfalls, we suggest that you wear a bathing suit under your trekking outfit. Thai culture is modest, so we encourage you to wear a t-shirt over your bathing suit and ask that you refrain from wearing a two-piece bathing suit. Don’t forget to pack a lightweight, but an absorbent towel, too.

The rainy season generally takes place from July through October. Rain showers typically last between one to two hours during the wet season, so it is best to pack a lightweight rain jacket or buy a thin plastic poncho to take with you on the trekking tour during these months. You may like to also pack an extra set of dry clothes to change into.

Rain or shine, the tour will go on as scheduled. If you are bringing a camera, consider using a waterproof camera or using something to protect your camera, such as a waterproof case or cover.

There is little chance of rain during the remainder of the year; this is particularly true during the dry season between December and March.

Personal toiletries and first aid items are important to bring as well. Pack a small ziplock bag that includes sunscreen, mosquito repellent, wet wipes, toilet paper, and plasters. Our trekking tours will also have a first aid kit available. Additionally, pack any necessary prescription medications, such as asthma inhalers or epi-pens, specific to your medical needs.

Tips and advice for an amazing Chiang Mai trekking adventure

Whether this is your first time or you are a Chiang Mai trekking regular, use the following tips and advice to get the best out of your trip.

Do your homework

Chiang Mai is blessed with an array of stunning trails and trekking options to suit all levels. Think about what you want to get out of your trekking experience and then find a trek that meets all of your requirements.

You will find that tours are available in varying lengths ranging from day trips to multi-day adventures. They will also vary in terms of the amount of actual walking involved. Think about whether you want to spend a lot of time walking or whether you would prefer something more leisurely that involves a greater amount of time spent on activities, such as meeting a hill tribe.

Be sure to do some research into the different routes available and note the terrain. Three hours of walking may not sound like much, but if it is all spent climbing a mountain, it will be much more strenuous than a longer, flatter route. Being fully aware of what you are signing up for will make for a more enjoyable experience than over-exerting yourself and being unable to comfortably complete each day.

As you will have noticed above, many treks come with options such as bamboo rafting, visiting elephant camps, meeting hill tribes, and swimming in waterfalls. Consider what you would like to experience and how much time you would like to spend on each activity.

Use a good tour company and guide

If this is your first visit to Chiang Mai or you are inexperienced in terms of trekking, it would be advisable to join a tour with a knowledgeable guide, rather than going it alone. Using a guide will ensure that you have the best possible experience; taking suitable routes, seeing the best sights, and most importantly, staying safe.

Be sure to use a reputable and well-regarded company.

Consider your fitness level

Whilst none of the treks in and around Chiang Mai require any expert levels of skill or fitness, some of them are moderately strenuous. Be aware of the terrain and amount of walking involved, and choose a trek that matches your capability.

In order to enjoy your tour in the best possible way, you should do proper training beforehand. This includes not only walking in general but also walking with a backpack because going up and down with the weight on your back can take some getting used to.

Take the right gear

It may sound obvious that you need to bring the right gear, but many people spoil their enjoyment of their trekking experience by neglecting to bring things, such as a pair of comfortable, supportive hiking shoes. If you are planning to come in the rainy season, waterproof walking boots are a plus. We have provided a list of essentials in the section “What to Pack” above.

Be a responsible tourist

Be respectful of Thai culture and customs, for example by covering up while bathing at a waterfall. When visiting a hill tribe, interact with the people, rather than simply looking at them and taking photographs. Many have learned a little English over the years, and your guide will also be happy to interpret for you.

Do not leave any rubbish behind when out trekking, and be conscious not to damage or interfere with any of the plants or wildlife you may encounter on your trek.

Stay hydrated

Make sure you carry enough water with you for the amount of time you will be walking. Bring some small change to buy a bottle of water and your guide will be able to advise you where to buy some before you start trekking. Be prepared to carry your own bottle. Drink it at regular intervals; don’t wait until you are thirsty. It is very easy to become dehydrated when trekking in Chiang Mai, and this can be dangerous if severe.

Don’t over-pack

On a Thai trekking tour, it is unlikely that you will have porters to carry your bags, so you should be prepared to carry your own backpack. A small difference in weight can really add up when you are walking for hours at a time. Be realistic about what you need versus what you “might need,” and only pack the essentials.

Expect the unexpected

Remember that you will be trekking in nature and as such, not everything is controllable. The weather may cause schedules to change, things may go wrong, and you will almost certainly experience peaks and troughs in your energy levels. Approach the trek with a positive attitude, a sense of adventure, and a sense of humor, and you will be sure to have a great time, no matter what happens.

So what will it be?

Which of our options is the best ? It’s really up to you — whether you are a dedicated hiker, a cultural enthusiast, or want to experience a little bit of everything, these Chiang Mai trekking tours will be sure to leave you itching for more.